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Psychotria Tenuifolia

Psychotria Tenuifolia

Description

Psychotria Tenuifolia, also known as slender leaved Psychotria or wild coffee, is a tropical evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is native to South America, particularly Brazil and Peru, and grows up to six feet tall. This plant is popular for its ornamental foliage and white flowers, which bloom in summer and fall.

Taxonomic Information

Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Spermatophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Gentianales
Family: Rubiaceae
Genus: Psychotria

Appearance

Psychotria Tenuifolia has slender, elongated leaves that are dark green and glossy. The leaves are 2-5 inches long and about half an inch wide. The plant also produces small white flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by small, red berries that are edible but not commonly consumed.

Care Guide

Psychotria Tenuifolia requires well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It prefers partial shade to full sun and can tolerate temperatures between 60-80°F. In terms of fertilization, it is best to use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Water

This plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, make sure that the soil does not become waterlogged as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilization

Psychotria Tenuifolia is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to thrive. Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Soil

This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to avoid waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.

Sunlight

Psychotria Tenuifolia prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate direct sunlight but may require more frequent watering in these conditions.

Hardiness Zones

This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Psychotria Tenuifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. If an infestation occurs, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant.

Habitat

Psychotria Tenuifolia is native to tropical regions of South America, particularly Brazil and Peru. It grows in rainforests and other moist, shaded areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Psychotria Tenuifolia be grown indoors?

A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a well-lit area and provided with adequate watering and fertilization.

Q: Are the red berries of Psychotria Tenuifolia edible?

A: Yes, the red berries of this plant are edible but are not commonly consumed.

Q: How often should I fertilize Psychotria Tenuifolia?

A: It is recommended to fertilize this plant every two weeks during the growing season.

Q: What is the best way to prevent spider mites and mealybugs on Psychotria Tenuifolia?

A: To prevent these pests, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized. If an infestation occurs, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant.

Related Plants

  • Psychotria Elata
  • Psychotria Viridis
  • Psychotria Carthagenensis
  • Psychotria Nervosa

References

  • “Psychotria Tenuifolia.” Floridata. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Rubiaceae/Psychotria+tenuifolia/1057.
  • “Psychotria Tenuifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=271735&isprofile=0&basic=psychotria%20tenuifolia.
  • “Psychotria Tenuifolia.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 23 June 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/psychotria-tenuifolia.html.

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